|
Communication and Maslow's Need Theory
Needs and their satisfaction are common denominators in any relationship. Satisfaction of needs motivates every type of human
behavior.
Dr. Abraham Maslow has provided a hierarchy of needs that influence
behavior. While trying to understand this theory, we must remember that they are hierarchical in order.
Growth Needs*
(Being values)
(Metaneeds)
*Growth needs are all of equal importance (not hierarchical) |
Basic Needs
(Deficiency needs) |
|
Self
Actualization
Truth
Goodness
Beauty
Aliveness
Individuality
Perfection
Necessity
Completion
Justice
Order
Simplicity
Richness
Playfulness
Effortlessness
Self Sufficiency
Meaningfulness
|
Self Esteem
Esteem By Others
|
| Love and Belongingness |
| Safety and Security |
Physiological
Air, Water, Food, Clothing Shelter, Sleep, Sex, Elimination of body waste |
The External Environment
Preconditions for Need Satisfaction:
Freedom, Justice, Orderliness
Challenge (Stimulation) |
|
Communication Approaches
In communication, there can be six basic approaches, applied to all five levels. Thus in approaching each of the five levels, it is possible to choose any one of the approaches:
1. The communicator works for other's needs.
2. The communicator works for his own needs.
3. The communicator works for both other person's and his own needs.
4. The communicator works against his own needs.
5. The communicator works against other person's needs.
6. The communicator works against both his own as well as other's needs.
The hierarchy of needs and six basic approaches can be applied to different group levels. The three major group levels could be:
Level 1 Interpersonal
Level 2 Inter-organizational
Level 3 International
The above understanding provides a vast number of approaches to your
communication effectiveness.
Kartik Vyas, is a management trainer, yoga mentor and consultant as well as a motivational speaker. He has trained more than 30,000 people from 14 nations over the last 22 years. You can reach him at www.kartikvyas.com
|
